Questions and Answers

Q: What about the needles used?
A: We use single-use pre-sterilized disposable needles, which are disposed of immediately after use. Codes of Safe Practice, drawn up in consultation with experts in the field of skin piercing, lays down stringent standards which all acupuncturists are required to follow. The rules also extend to the hygiene and sterilization of other equipment.

Q: Is it safe?
A: There have been three surveys in the last six years which have shown that acupuncture is amongst the safest therapies in use in the UK today. Out of 68,000 recorded treatments in two of the 2001 surveys, there were only 14 minor (bruising, feeling nauseous) adverse events. There have been very few reports of serious adverse events, and most adverse effects are transient, lasting no more than a day or so.

Q: What should I do before treatment?
 A: You should try not to have a large meal within an hour of your appointment as the process of digestion will alter the pattern of your pulse. You should also avoid alcohol, and food or drinks which colour your tongue, such as coffee, immediately prior to treatment.

Q: How will I feel after acupuncture?
A: You may feel rather relaxed and calm. If the treatment has been particularly strong you could feel quite tired or drowsy for a few hours, and you should take this into account if you are planning to drive or use machinery. Occasionally there may be a short-term flair-up of your symptoms as your qi clears and resettles itself.

Q: Should I tell my doctor?
A: If you are receiving treatment from your doctor then it is sensible to mention that you plan to have acupuncture. The acupuncture treatment may enable you to reduce or even stop taking some forms of medication, but you should always consult your doctor regarding any change of prescription. Your acupuncturist needs to know about any medication you are taking as this may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.

Q: Should I continue with my prescribed medication while undergoing a course of acupuncture treatment?
A: Yes, at least until you have discussed this with your doctor or the practitioner who prescribed the medication. Many people seek the help of an acupuncturist because of dissatisfaction with drug treatment, because it does not seem to be working or because the side effects are unacceptable. DO NOT stop taking any medication without professional guidance.

Q: Is acupuncture available on the NHS?
A: Some primary care trusts (PCT) and GP practices offer acupuncture treatment, but it is not yet commonplace. You should always enquire about any acupuncture treatment on offer to ensure that the practitioner is safe, properly trained, competent and fully insured.

Q: What should I look for in an acupuncturist?

 A: As well as checking that they are registered with a professional body and have appropriate insurance cover, you may find that your personal rapport with the practitioner is important. It is helpful to find a practitioner with whom you feel comfortable, who understands what you want from treatment, and who can explain clearly what they expect acupuncture treatment might do for you. 

Q: What can acupuncture do for me?

 A: This depends on whether you have specific symptoms or whether you wish to use acupuncture as a method of health maintenance. You should contact one or more of the practitioners in your area who will discuss your condition and answer specific questions.

Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: This varies between patients. Most people have a course of treatment and usually notice changes after four to six sessions. Your practitioner will review your progress with you, and carefully monitor your treatment to ensure that it matches your needs.